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BMW X1
Agile premium crossover
Overview
BMW X1 in brief
The BMW X1 is the German manufacturer's compact SUV, bringing BMW's driving feel and build quality to a smaller, more affordable size than the larger X3 and X5. As a used car, the X1 appeals especially to buyers who want the higher driving position, good visibility and quality interior of a premium brand, without the price tag or footprint of a bigger SUV.
The model has been sold in Finland across three generations built on entirely different platforms, which makes comparing used examples more layered than usual. The first generation is rear-wheel-drive based and has a sportier driving character, while the two newer generations are built on a front-wheel-drive platform and lean more towards space and comfort. A particularly interesting option as a used car is the plug-in hybrid version, which combines BMW's driving dynamics with the option of running on electric power for daily use.
You can also browse all of Saka's BMW used cars if you want to compare the X1 with the rest of the brand's lineup. You'll find more hands-on impressions of BMW models in Saka's test drive videos.
Who is the BMW X1 for?
The BMW X1 suits a buyer who wants the feel and quality finish of a premium brand without the size, fuel consumption or purchase price of a larger SUV. It's a natural choice for city driving and commuting, but it also handles longer trips comfortably when needed.
- Premium build quality and materials in a compact size, without paying for a larger SUV.
- A higher driving position and better visibility than comparably sized sedans and hatchbacks.
- The plug-in hybrid version makes it possible to commute daily on electric power and still cover longer trips on the petrol engine.
- xDrive all-wheel drive adds extra confidence in winter conditions and on slippery roads.
- A size that suits city parking and tighter urban environments better than the X3 or X5.
- A wide range of generations and powertrains available means there's an entry point for very different budgets.
- BMW's driving dynamics and steering feel stand out from many competitors, especially in the older, rear-wheel-drive-based generation.
Price of a used BMW X1
The price of a used BMW X1 depends in particular on the generation, model year, mileage, powertrain, drivetrain, equipment, service history and overall condition of the car. Older examples with higher mileage sit at the more affordable end, while newer, low-mileage and well-equipped cars, such as the latest generation's plug-in hybrids, are considerably more expensive.
BMW X1 used cars sold at Saka have typically been priced at roughly 9,900 to 44,000 euros. When comparing prices, it's worth looking beyond the model year and generation at the car's mileage, service history, powertrain, drivetrain and equipment, since there can be big price differences even between cars of a similar age or with the same engine.
Model years and generations
- 1st generation, E84, 2009-2015: The first BMW X1 is built on a rear-wheel-drive-based platform, related to the 3 Series of the time. As a used car, this is the most affordable option in the model range and also the sportiest to drive. Both rear-wheel-drive sDrive and all-wheel-drive xDrive versions were offered, with diesel being the most common powertrain. Service history and engine condition matter especially in this generation.
- 2nd generation, F48, 2015-2022: Clearly the most common generation on the used market in Finland. The platform switched to the front-wheel-drive-based UKL architecture, the same one used in, for example, the 2 Series Active Tourer. The lineup includes petrol and diesel options, and from the facelift onwards, the xDrive25e plug-in hybrid. xLine and M Sport equipment packages are common among used examples.
- 3rd generation, U11, 2022-present: The current model, still built on a front-wheel-drive-based platform but offering a wider range of powertrains: petrol and diesel engines, the xDrive25e and xDrive30e plug-in hybrids, and the sporty M35i xDrive. The fully electric version is sold as its own sibling model, the BMW iX1, which you'll find at Saka on its own model page.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly BMW X1, the first generation is often a good place to start. In that case, it's important to pay close attention to the car's service history and engine condition. If you'd rather have the latest technology and a plug-in hybrid, it's worth looking at late F48 models or the U11 generation's xDrive25e and xDrive30e versions.
Read on below to learn more about the model!
Technical specifications
Engines and powertrains
The BMW X1 is available used with a very wide range of engines, since the model has been sold across three generations and several powertrains. The oldest generation offers only petrol and diesel options, while the two newer generations also bring a plug-in hybrid into the mix.
Among used examples, you'll particularly come across these options:
- 18i, 20i, sDrive18i and xDrive20i (petrol): Conventional petrol models without any hybrid technology. Suit a buyer who wants a simple and reliable powertrain.
- 18d, 20d, 23d and 25d (diesel): Diesel has been the X1's most popular powertrain throughout the model's history and suits high-mileage drivers in particular. Power outputs vary by generation and version, roughly between 140 and 190 horsepower.
- xDrive25e (F48, plug-in hybrid): A plug-in hybrid offered from the F48 generation's facelift onwards, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor. Everyday electric range is a few dozen kilometres.
- xDrive25e and xDrive30e (U11, plug-in hybrid): The latest generation's plug-in hybrids, with a WLTP electric range of around 90 kilometres. The xDrive30e is the more powerful of the two and suits a buyer who also values brisk performance.
- M35i xDrive (U11): The lineup's sportiest and most powerful version, for a buyer who wants as much performance as possible from the X1 platform.
Drivetrain
The BMW X1 is available with both two-wheel-drive sDrive and all-wheel-drive xDrive versions. In the first generation, sDrive means rear-wheel drive, while in the two newer, front-wheel-drive-based generations, sDrive is front-wheel drive and xDrive is an on-demand all-wheel-drive system that sends power to the rear axle when needed in slippery conditions. Both drivetrains were sold used in Finland, but xDrive all-wheel-drive examples are more common, since all-wheel drive suits Finnish winter conditions well. The drivetrain and how it behaves should always be checked on a test drive and against the car's own technical documents.
Dimensions, boot space and towing capacity
The BMW X1's dimensions and boot space grew noticeably from generation to generation. The F48 generation measures roughly 4,439 mm long, 1,821 mm wide and 1,598 mm tall, with a boot capacity of around 505 litres, rising to roughly 1,550 litres with the rear seats folded down. The latest U11 generation is noticeably more spacious: around 4,500 mm long, with a 2,692 mm wheelbase and about 540 litres of boot space, extending to around 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded.
Many X1 models are also available with a tow bar, but towing capacity varies by powertrain, drivetrain and equipment. Towing capacity should always be checked against the individual car's registration and technical documents before making a purchase decision.
Driving experience and top features
Driving feel, driver assistance and safety
The first-generation BMW X1 is known for the sportiest driving feel, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive-based platform. The two newer generations are softer and more comfort-oriented to drive, but still offer BMW's typically precise steering and good chassis control. Sound insulation and overall ride comfort have improved noticeably with each generation change.
The level of driver assistance and safety equipment depends a lot on the model year and equipment package. Newer F48 and especially U11 generation cars offer features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, traffic sign recognition and improved automatic emergency braking systems. The older E84 generation has noticeably more basic safety equipment.
Top features
- Automatic transmission
- xDrive all-wheel drive
- M Sport and xLine equipment packages
- Adaptive cruise control
- Reversing camera and 360-degree camera
- Heated seats and heated steering wheel
- Comfort Access keyless entry
- Head-up display
- Panoramic sunroof
- Tow bar
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- High-quality sound system
Buyer's guide
What to check when buying a used BMW X1?
- Service history: Check that scheduled services have been carried out according to BMW's programme, especially oil change intervals and any warranty repairs.
- Engine running and noises: Listen for knocking under acceleration, which can indicate worn engine mounts, especially in the F48 generation.
- Oil leaks: Check the valve cover and engine block for any oil leaks.
- Transmission operation: Test drive the car for a reasonably long distance and make sure the gears shift smoothly without hesitation.
- Timing chain on diesel models: Older E84 generation diesel engines have known issues with the timing chain tensioner and guides, which are worth checking in the service history.
- Plug-in hybrid battery and charging: If it's an xDrive25e or xDrive30e, test the charging function and make sure the electric range matches expectations.
- All-wheel drive function: Test the xDrive system's all-wheel drive, for example on a slippery surface, or ask a service shop about the system's condition.
- Chassis noises and tyres: Listen for rattling from the chassis on the test drive and check tyre wear and age.
- Electrics and air conditioning: Test all electric features, windows, seat adjustments and the air conditioning.
- Rust: Check the underbody and sills of older E84 examples in particular for rust.
- Warning lights: Make sure there are no engine or other warning lights on the dashboard.
Maintenance and running costs
The BMW X1's maintenance and running costs sit around the middle of its class, but as a premium brand, parts and dealer servicing tend to be somewhat pricier than mainstream brands. Diesel models are generally the most economical to run over long distances thanks to their lower fuel consumption, while plug-in hybrids can be very cheap to run day to day if charging is possible regularly.
The older E84 generation diesels need the most care, since the timing chain tensioner's condition is worth checking in the service history. From the service history, it's particularly worth looking at oil change intervals, any timing chain or belt related services, and any transmission or hybrid system maintenance.
Petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid?
A petrol engine suits a buyer who drives fewer kilometres and values simple technology. Diesel has traditionally been the X1's most popular choice for high-mileage drivers, since it uses less fuel over longer distances. A plug-in hybrid, meanwhile, suits a buyer who can charge the car regularly at home or at work, since it allows shorter commutes to be done almost entirely on electric power, with longer trips covered by the petrol engine.
Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
sDrive front-wheel drive is perfectly adequate for a buyer who mostly drives on well-maintained roads and appreciates a slightly lower purchase price and lower fuel consumption. xDrive all-wheel drive brings extra confidence in winter conditions, on slippery roads and, for example, on the way to a cabin, which is why it's clearly more common as a used car in Finland and is often also the better choice for resale value.
Competitors and comparison
Comparison within the brand
- BMW X2: Built on the same platform as the X1, with a sportier, coupe-styled look.
- BMW X3: A noticeably larger and more spacious SUV, suited to a bigger family or a buyer who needs more boot space.
- BMW iX1: The X1's fully electric sibling model, for a buyer who wants to leave the combustion engine behind entirely.
Comparison with competitors
- Audi Q3: A premium competitor known for its high-quality interior and broad engine lineup.
- Mercedes-Benz GLA: A stylish, comfort-focused premium SUV that competes directly with the X1 in the same size class.
- Volvo XC40: An SUV that emphasises safety and Scandinavian design, also available as a fully electric option.
Summary
The BMW X1 is a good choice for a buyer who values BMW's driving feel and premium finish in a compact SUV size, and who wants a wide range of generations and powertrains to suit different budgets. If you're after a slightly sportier look, the X2 is a natural choice built on the same platform. If you need more space, the X3 or, among competitors, the Volvo XC40 may serve you better.
You can easily browse Saka's entire selection on the used cars page, where you'll see all available cars and can compare options with ease. You'll also find useful car-related information on Saka's homepage.
Frequently Asked Questions - BMW X1
Is the BMW X1 a reliable used car?
Yes, the BMW X1 is generally a reliable used car, as long as the service history is in order. The diesel engines are known for long service lives, and regularly maintained examples hold up well to hundreds of thousands of kilometres.
Is the BMW X1 worth buying?
The X1 is an excellent fit for a buyer who wants a premium brand's driving feel and finish in a compact SUV size, without the price or footprint of a larger model. The wide range of generations and powertrains makes it a good fit for very different budgets.
What are the most common BMW X1 faults?
In the older E84 generation diesels, a known issue is wear in the timing chain tensioner and guides. In the F48 generation, there are reports of worn engine mounts, which show up as a knocking noise under acceleration, as well as valve cover gasket oil leaks. No widely known common faults have emerged yet for the latest U11 generation.
Is the BMW X1 a plug-in hybrid?
Some versions are. From the F48 generation's facelift onwards, the xDrive25e has been available, and the U11 generation offers the xDrive25e and xDrive30e. The other versions are conventional petrol or diesel models without a charging socket.
Is the BMW X1 front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
The first generation, E84, is rear-wheel-drive based, so its sDrive versions are rear-wheel drive. The F48 and U11 generations are front-wheel-drive based, so their sDrive versions are front-wheel drive. In every generation, the xDrive versions are all-wheel drive.
How does the BMW X1 compare to the Audi Q3?
Both are popular premium SUVs, but the X1 leans a bit more towards driving dynamics and BMW's typical steering feel, while the Audi Q3 is known especially for its high-quality interior and all-wheel-drive system. The choice often comes down to personal taste and also depends on the engine and equipment options available.
What should you pay attention to on a test drive?
On a test drive, listen for engine and chassis noises, test the transmission in different driving situations, try the all-wheel drive on a slippery surface if possible, and check that all the electric features work. When test driving a plug-in hybrid, it's also worth testing the charging function and driving on electric power.
Easy car deals at Saka!
Saka is Finland's largest used-car dealer, and our operations are built on strict quality control. We select only the best examples among used cars and make sure every car we sell lives up to our promises.
Every used car priced over €10,000 that comes up for sale at Saka undergoes an independent third-party condition inspection, and the key findings are compiled for the customer in the Rehti certificate – the new standard for used-car condition inspections.
Why buy a car from Saka?
- Thorough condition inspection and the Rehti certificate: Our used cars priced over €10,000 undergo an independent third-party condition inspection, and the batteries of electric cars and plug-in hybrids are tested with the Aviloo battery test. The key findings of the inspection are compiled for the customer in the Rehti certificate. Read more about the Rehti certificate, the condition inspection and the battery test.
- Flexible car financing: We offer ready-negotiated financing, letting you pay for your car easily in even monthly instalments – even without a down payment if needed.
- Trading in your car: Sell us your old car! We buy cars under 10 years old with under 225,000 km on the clock. When you buy a car from us, we'll take your old car in trade.
- Home delivery: We deliver the car of your dreams to a Saka showroom or straight to your front door anywhere in Finland. Read more about home delivery.
On our site you'll also find plenty of information on different car models and fuel types. On our media page you'll find, besides our sweepstakes, things like:
- Guides to buying an electric car, a hybrid car and a used car
- Test-drive videos, where experienced car journalist Anniina Pohjonen test-drives Saka's most popular cars
- Tip videos, where our car salespeople answer the most common questions about choosing a car
- Stylish vibe videos of the most popular car models
Interested in a X1?
Get in touch!Contact one of our experts and find the perfect X1 for you.